WINDHAM, Conn. — State police are investigating a murder-suicide in Willimantic.
Police said they were called to a home on Gem Drive around 11:45 a.m. on the report of a stabbing.
When they got to the scene, officers found 68-year-old Luz Figueroa suddering from a stab wound. Witnesses at the scene told police the suspect may have still been in the residence.
That's when the Willimantic Police Department activated its Special Operations Group to try and find the suspect. Police said after numerous, unsuccessful attempts, a robot was eventually deployed.
In the basement of the home, police said they found the suspect, dead. He was identified as 67-year-old Edgardo Figueroa. Police said the victim and suspect were married.
Jose Cruz lives next door and said he knew the older Hispanic couple well.
“I knew him for a couple of years because I worked with him at Natchaug hospital and he seemed to be like a really good guy and also her, they were quiet,” Cruz shared.
Cruz said he would see the older man in the mornings before work, but something seemed off on Tuesday.
“It was different today because I said hi, he just waved his hand, and he came back in and I didn’t see him anymore.”
At the request of the Windham State’s Attorney, detectives from State Police Eastern District Major Crimes Squad began primary investigatory responsibilities for the murder investigation.
Police are reminding people that October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Domestic violence is not just physical; some signs of domestic violence are emotional/psychological, economic abuse, stalking and harassment. These signs can lead to physical abuse as time progresses within the relationship. The most volatile time may be when a victim is attempting to leave the abuser.
For more information about domestic violence or resources, visit the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence website.
If any victims, friends or family are looking to connect with an advocate, they can also visit ctsafeconnect.org or call or text 888-774-2900. Call, text, chat or email 24/7, all services are free, confidential and voluntary.